Argentina has made a bold bid to host a British & Irish Lions tour, potentially at the iconic River Plate stadium.
Rugby South America’s president, Sebastian Pineyrua, has extended an invitation to the Lions, suggesting it could be mutually beneficial for both parties.
This proposal comes as the Lions consider their future touring schedule beyond 2025, with the possibility of expanding beyond their traditional destinations of Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
Pineyrua told Mail Sport, “A Lions tour to South America should at least be on the table because it could be good for both parties.”
The Lions’ traditional touring schedule has been limited to Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa for decades.
However, Argentina’s recent success in international rugby has made it an attractive prospect for expansion.
River Plate play at the Estadio Mas Monumental
Reuters
The Pumas have beaten Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa in the recent Rugby Championship, demonstrating their competitive edge.
Michael Cheika, who has coached both Argentina and Australia, endorsed the idea, stating, “Argentina are a big player in the southern hemisphere market now. They’ve earned their time.”
JUST IN: Wayne Rooney accused of ‘hating Cristiano Ronaldo’ after snubbing former Man Utd team-mate
This proposal could potentially reshape the Lions’ future, offering a fresh and challenging destination for the prestigious touring team.
Pineyrua outlined potential venues and logistics for a South American tour.
He suggested, “You could play in a stadium like River Plate or La Plata. Instead of the provincial games they could play Chile, Uruguay, a South American XV.”
READ MORE: Mike Tyson ‘looked pregnant’ as worrying verdict given on boxing icon ahead of Jake Paul fight
The timing could be advantageous for UK audiences, with Pineyrua noting, “You could play games at 3 o’clock here then it’s 7pm in the UK.
“Get everyone in the pubs, finishing work.”
He also highlighted the region’s appeal for travelling fans, stating, “Here in South America, we have very nice countries, a lot of tourists, coasts, beautiful places to bring fans.”
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
- Man Utd players ‘puzzled by Erik ten Hag policy’ with staff also unhappy as future hangs in the balance
- Jake Paul makes risky £3.8m offer to Mike Tyson as controversial boxing clash looms
- Wimbledon breaks 147-year tradition with major decision as 300 jobs at risk
The Estadio Mas Monumental could play host to the British and Irish Lions tour
Reuters
Michael Cheika, Leicester head coach and former Argentina and Australia coach, offered further insights into the potential of a South American tour.
He emphasised the challenging nature of such a venture, stating, “The midweek circuit there would not be easy. Go to play in Rosario, Santa Fe, Santiago del Estero, Cordoba… it would be tough going.”
Scotland toured Argentina in 2010
PA
Cheika also highlighted the commercial considerations, noting, “A lot of that is decided on the commercial element these days.”
However, he remained enthusiastic about the prospect, concluding, “Without a doubt, it would be a great tour.”